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Jensen Beach, FL_September 11, 2007__ “September 11 was and always will be a paradox,” said Palm Beach Bishop Gerald Barbarito while presiding over a special “Blue Mass,” on September 11, 2007, in Jensen Beach, FL. This Sixth-Anniversary Memorial Blue Mass, honoring victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, as well as those who continue to serve every day, in traditionally blue uniforms, was co-hosted by St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Council # 8048.


“The tragedy becomes deeper and deeper as the years go on,” said the Bishop in his homily, “and yet through it all, we begin to see more and more clearly what the meaning and the purpose of life is really all about.  September 11 will always present a tremendous paradox, because while the power of evil was so present on that day, so was the power of goodness.”


“We will face over and over again the power of evil and hatred and violence,” said Bishop Barbarito, but we also “remember all those who lost their lives and gave their lives and came in to protect our lives – the police, fire fighters, rescue workers – all those, who on the scene and after the scene, dealt with that evil and tragedy in a way in which it was obvious from the very beginning of that September 11 that goodness always triumphs over evil.”


“We thank them; we continue to thank them,” said the Bishop, “and as you remember this terrible tragedy, and pray that God will continue to bring good from all the evil that occurred, we may move into the future with faith and security, always giving thanks for those who help us and protect us.”


“You need to be recognized each and every day for all you do for us. One day a year is not enough,” said the Rev. James E. Molgano, Pastor of St. Martin de Porres, addressing the many groups present at the Mass, which included color guards from the Martin County Sherriff’s Department, the Martin Country Fire Rescue, police officers, EMTs, and the Marine Corps 4th Anglico, who, along with the Knights of Columbus, presented and posted colors during processions into and out of the Church, with members of the FDNY Retired, and federal, state and local elected officials.


A bagpipe player led the procession into the Church. Mass was preceded by a viewing of the inspirational 8-minute 9/11 Memorial video “Angels Over America” written and co-produced by Carolyn Long, who came from Maryland to attend services. Music Director Robert Carson led the orchestra and chorus in a stirring program of music. Services concluded with a 21 gun salute and the playing of “Amazing Grace,” and “Taps.” The entire congregation was invited to a catered luncheon with Bishop Barbarito, Pastor James Mogano, and the attending service groups.


St. Martin de Porres Pastor James Molgano expects to make this an annual event at the Church.


The “Angels Over America” poem and video can be viewed or downloaded from the website www.AngelsOverAmerica.org.  A copy of the video on DVD or a laminated poster of the poem, “Angels Over America,” are available from the website or by email from Carolyn@AngelsOverAmerica.com. Carolyn K. Long is a writer, photographer, professional speaker and consultant based in Columbia, MD.

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